What is the difference between positive and negative body image?
Body image is a combination of:
- how you see yourself when you look in a mirror or catch a glimpse of your reflection in a window
- what you believe and tell yourself about what you see
- how you feel about what you see
- and how you behave toward your body as a result of what you see, feel and think.
Body image is not necessarily about your size or about eating issues. There are thin people who see themselves as fat, and there are people who are considered beautiful by most, but who think they are ugly and experience daily struggles with body image, and the shame, guilt, and embarrassment that accompany negative body image.
You don’t have to have a weight or eating problem to struggle with body image. There are many differences between positive and negative body image.
Symptoms Of Negative Body Image
- You see yourself as ugly and disgusting
- You see a distorted image of yourself
- You see your body size or shape as a symbol of your personal failings
- You constantly compare yourself to others
- You are embarrassed by your body
- You are ashamed of your body
- You hate yourself because of the way your body looks
Positive Body Image
- You see your body and its parts as they really are
- You appreciate your body
- You understand that your value as a person is not tied to your appearance
- You feel comfortable in your body as you move through the day
- You treat your body well
When you love your body you take care of it.
When you hate your body you do your best to destroy it.
Self Acceptance and Self Care
Your body size is a reflection of your eating habits, your exercise habits, and genetics. Although this affects each of us differently, when we understand the interaction it is easier to work with our bodies rather than against them.
